
The first birthday bash in December went off — it must have been the busiest Hanoi Rock City has experienced it since opening — which summed up a cracking year for the To Ngoc Van party and live music venue.

Newcomer Boombox Lounge showcases a two story ‘Chill Lounge’ not too far from the Opera House and is ideal for drinks against a bright backdrop.

The good thing about a city sprinting towards development is that new businesses touch down at an almost hourly rate. Here are a few that really left a mark in 2011 and are sure to grow in popularity in 2012 . Photos by Aaron Joel Santos

Everyone’s been there and most have got the t-shirt, but few know how it is to live amid the chaos of Ta Hien and its neighbouring streets. Words by Ian Paynton and Hoa Le. Photos by Dominic Blewett